VIBRATION ANALYSIS OF ROTATING MACHINERY USING THE SPECTRAL DISTRIBUTION FUNCTION

The spectral distribution function is used to characterize the vibration signal of rotating machinery. It is shown to be a more robust indicator than conventional power spectral density estimates, but requires only slightly more computational effort. The method is demonstrated with a model of a defective bearing. The spectral distribution function is applied to practical problems involving seeded helicopter transmission faults and the vibration signal from a ground-based vacuum compressor system.